The Melbourne Stars’ quest for an elusive maiden Big Bash title is over after Tanveer Sangha spun the Thunder out of a big hole, moving the Sydneysiders a step closer to a spot in next week’s final in Hobart.

Sydney Thunders eliminated Melbourne Stars from the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 after a 21-run victory in the Knockout game played at the Sydney Showground Stadium, Sydney on Wednesday.

The resurgent Melbourne Stars have made a remarkable recovery from 0-5, winning their last five games to book an unlikely BBL finals spot. Needing to beat ladder-leaders Hobart in the last game of the regular season, the Stars smashed 5-219 batting first at the MCG to set up the 40-run win over the Hurricanes.